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English Lavender: A Sweet and Aromatic Herb

Though its name suggests otherwise, English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is actually native to the Mediterranean, not England. This beloved herb is cherished for its sweet, relaxing floral aroma, and both its flowers and leaves have been used for centuries in traditional Western herbalism. Dried lavender flowers are commonly added to potpourri blends, used as a flavorful spice in cooking and baking, and incorporated into body care recipes.

We are proud to offer both Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula x intermedia as lavender flowers. While these varieties can generally be used interchangeably, some people prefer one over the other for its unique qualities.

Lavandula angustifolia is the classic lavender that most people recognize. Also known as Common Lavender, True Lavender, or French Lavender (when sourced from France), it is sometimes labeled as Lavandula officinalis. This small greyish-purple flower is especially well-known for its sweet floral fragrance. Belonging to the mint family, the lavender genus has been adored for centuries.

Lavender is a perennial evergreen shrub with woody stems that produce lavender or purple flowers from late spring to early autumn. Some varieties even bloom in white or pink. Native to the Mediterranean, lavender is now grown in cooler climates with dry summers in Europe and the Western United States. Lavender’s history dates back thousands of years, with its earliest recorded use by the Egyptians in mummification. The Greeks and Romans also valued lavender for bathing, cooking, and perfumery. The Romans even used it as an after-bath fragrance, deriving its name from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash.” During the Great Plague of 1665, grave robbers would wash their hands with a concoction known as Four Thieves Vinegar, which contained lavender, along with other herbs, and was said to offer protection from infection.

Lavender’s use in French cuisine is well-known, where it is an essential ingredient in herbes de Provence. It can be used on its own to impart a delightful floral flavor to desserts, meats, and breads. Lavender can also be infused into sugar to create a fragrant addition to cookies and candies.

Throughout history, lavender has been thought to inspire passion and is still regarded as one of the most recognizable scents worldwide.

Precautions
No known precautions. However, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications.